Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged Nigerians in the diaspora, particularly those in the United States, to bolster the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in revitalizing the nation’s economy, according to a press release from the Office of the Vice President dated September 4, 2026. The call came during an interactive session with the Nigerian diaspora community at the Nigeria House in New York, where Shettima outlined the government’s efforts to reposition key sectors such as education, health, science, technology, and agriculture.
Shettima, speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, emphasized the administration’s commitment to economic transformation, stating that the president had taken “bold decisions that only a leader of courage and conviction would take” since assuming office. The vice president highlighted the administration’s focus on fostering a “modern governance” framework aligned with global growth trajectories, particularly as Africa’s role in the global economy evolves.
The vice president pointed to tangible economic gains, including a surge in Nigeria’s foreign reserves from $3.9 billion to over $55 billion and a 4.45% growth rate in the last quarter. These improvements, he argued, would ensure the stability of diaspora remittances and attract investments from Nigerians abroad. “Nigeria is open for business,” Shettima asserted, countering negative narratives about the country’s economic prospects. “We have crossed the rubicon and are on the path of sustained growth.”
Shettima also underscored the administration’s efforts to enhance educational access through the Nigeria Education Loan Fund, which has provided N125 billion in support to 1.29 million tertiary students since its inception. This initiative, he said, reflects the government’s dedication to equipping the youth with the skills needed to drive national development. “Citizens of our country have the capacity and intellect to harness our nation’s potentials and take it to greater heights,” he added.
On security challenges, Shettima acknowledged the complexity of the issues but reiterated the administration’s resolve to address them. He called on Nigerians to prioritize unity, stating, “Whatever binds us together supercedes whatever divides us as a people.” The vice president’s remarks were echoed by several state governors and federal ministers present at the event, including Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The gathering featured high-profile attendees such as Foreign Affairs Minister Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Science and Technology Minister Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, and Education Minister Tunji Alausa, among others. Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim, and Ambassador to Washington, Kayode Are, also attended, underscoring the event’s significance in mobilizing support for the administration’s agenda.
Shettima’s speech coincided with broader discussions about Nigeria’s economic reforms, including the success of the Dangote Refinery, which he cited as a “true manifestation” of the country’s potential. He emphasized that the government’s policies were designed to restore investor confidence and create a conducive environment for business growth. “The Dangote Refinery success story is a testament to Nigeria’s resilience and ambition,” he said.
The vice president’s address also touched on the administration’s efforts to combat corruption and improve public service delivery. He noted that the government was leveraging the expertise of the diaspora community, whom he described as “the greatest resource of the future.” This sentiment was echoed by several diaspora representatives, who expressed optimism about Nigeria’s trajectory under Tinubu’s leadership.
Despite the positive outlook, Shettima acknowledged the challenges facing the nation, including security threats and the need for sustained economic reforms. He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and collaborative, stating, “Progress is not a solo endeavor; it requires the collective effort of all stakeholders.” The vice president’s remarks were met with applause from the audience, who emphasized the importance of diaspora engagement in Nigeria’s development.
The event highlighted the administration’s strategy to engage with the Nigerian diaspora as a critical partner in achieving economic stability. Shettima’s call for support comes amid ongoing debates about the effectiveness of Tinubu’s policies, with some critics questioning the pace of reforms. However, the vice president maintained that the government’s focus on measurable outcomes, such as foreign reserve growth and educational investments, demonstrated its commitment to long-term progress.
Shettima’s visit to New York also served as a platform to address concerns about the government’s handling of the economy. He reiterated that the administration had avoided “trading blames” with previous leadership, instead prioritizing actionable solutions. “We are not here to dwell on the past but to build a future that is prosperous for all Nigerians,” he said, emphasizing the need for unity and resilience.
The Nigerian diaspora community, which has historically played a vital role in the country’s economic and social development, was encouraged to contribute to the Renewed Hope Agenda. Shettima highlighted the potential of diaspora investments and expertise in driving innovation and job creation. “Our people abroad are not just spectators; they are partners in Nigeria’s journey,” he stated.
In addition to economic reforms, the vice president addressed the importance of addressing security challenges, which remain a pressing concern for many Nigerians. He assured the audience that the administration was deploying all available resources to combat threats, including those linked to regional conflicts and criminal activities. “Security is a shared responsibility, and we are committed to ensuring the safety of our citizens,” Shettima said.
The event concluded with a reaffirmation of the administration’s vision for Nigeria’s future. Shettima’s speech underscored the government’s determination to overcome obstacles and achieve sustainable growth, while also recognizing the critical role of the diaspora in this endeavor. As the Nigerian community in the U.S. continues to grow, its engagement with the homeland remains a cornerstone of the nation’s development strategy.
The vice president’s visit to New York marked a significant step in the administration’s outreach efforts, aiming to strengthen ties with the diaspora and secure broader support for its economic agenda. With the Renewed Hope Agenda gaining momentum, the focus remains on translating policy into tangible outcomes that benefit all Nigerians.
Shettima’s remarks were widely circulated among the diaspora community, sparking discussions about the potential for increased collaboration between Nigeria and its global citizens. As the administration continues to implement its reforms, the role of the diaspora in shaping the country’s future will remain a central theme in its outreach efforts.
The event also served as a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead, including the need for continued investment in education, infrastructure, and security. Shettima’s emphasis on unity and collective action resonated with many attendees, who expressed hope that the administration’s policies would lead to meaningful progress for the nation.
In closing, Shettima reiterated his confidence in Nigeria’s ability to overcome its challenges and emerge as a global economic player. “We are not just rebuilding; we are redefining what is possible for our nation,” he said, leaving the audience with a vision of a resilient and prosperous Nigeria.